The Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) has called on the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to conduct thorough electrical system inspections across all Boeing 787 aircraft operating in India. This request comes in the wake of a recent incident involving an Air India flight.

The Incident

On October 4, an Air India Boeing 787 experienced an unexpected deployment of its emergency Ram Air Turbine during landing at Birmingham airport. The Aircraft Health Monitoring system detected a fault in the Bus Power Control Unit, which is responsible for managing the aircraft's electrical power systems. While the aircraft landed safely, Air India grounded it for inspection and cancelled the return flight.

FIP's Concerns

FIP President G.S. Randhawa drew a connection between this incident and the tragic Air India Flight AI171 crash on June 12, which involved the same aircraft model and resulted in 260 fatalities. The pilots' group noted that following the AI171 crash, the DGCA's inspection was limited to fuel control switches rather than encompassing the entire electrical system.

Preliminary Findings

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) preliminary report on the AI171 crash indicated that both engines lost fuel supply within seconds of takeoff, leading to confusion in the cockpit. This finding underscores the importance of comprehensive safety checks and inspections.

Implications for Aviation Safety

This incident highlights the critical need for thorough and regular safety inspections in the aviation industry. The FIP's call for comprehensive electrical system checks across all Boeing 787 aircraft in India emphasizes the importance of proactive safety measures.

The aviation industry and regulatory bodies must prioritize passenger safety by ensuring rigorous inspections and maintenance protocols. As this situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor the DGCA's response and any subsequent actions taken to address these safety concerns.

Air India, the flag carrier airline of India, has made significant strides in expanding its operations and investing in pilot training facilities. The airline has recently launched direct flights between Delhi and Manila, while also establishing a state-of-the-art pilot training center in Gurugram.

New Delhi-Manila Direct Flights

Air India has introduced direct flights connecting Delhi and Manila, operating five times a week. These flights are serviced by Airbus A321LR aircraft, known for their long-range capabilities and fuel efficiency. This new route marks an important expansion of Air India's network in Southeast Asia, bringing the total number of destinations served in the region to eight across seven countries.

Expanding Network

The addition of the Delhi-Manila route is part of Air India's broader strategy to enhance its international presence. The Air India Group, which includes Air India and its subsidiaries, now operates a fleet of over 300 aircraft, serving 55 domestic and 45 international destinations. This extensive network underscores the airline's commitment to connecting India with key global markets.

₹1,000 Crore Investment in Pilot Training

In a move to enhance its training capabilities, Air India, in collaboration with Airbus, has established a cutting-edge pilot training facility in Gurugram. The project represents an investment exceeding ₹1,000 crore, highlighting the airline's commitment to developing skilled aviation professionals.

Training Facility Details

The training center was inaugurated by Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, marking a significant milestone in India's aviation sector. Currently, the facility houses two A320 family simulators, with plans to install the remaining simulators in phases.

Future Outlook

Air India's expansion of routes and investment in training infrastructure signals the airline's commitment to growth and operational excellence. As the airline continues to modernize its fleet and enhance its service offerings, these developments are likely to strengthen its position in the competitive global aviation market.

The focus on pilot training also aligns with the growing demand for skilled aviation professionals in India's rapidly expanding air travel sector. As Air India and other Indian carriers expand their operations, the new training facility is poised to play a crucial role in meeting the industry's need for well-trained pilots.